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Using
Technology Alliances to Broaden a Client Base
By
Steve Ciarciello
Accountants
are often expected to provide forward-thinking problem-solving
and advice on a broad range of issues, including technology—from
choosing accounting software to automating business processes
to securing financial data from outsiders. Technology solutions
allow accountants to look quickly into a company’s
operations, see clearly into cause-and-effect circumstances,
and pose credible “what if” scenarios. The right
software can pinpoint trends and possible trouble spots.
For
example, if a business’ inventory turn rate is half
the industry average, it shows the business owners that
they are tying up valuable resources in inventory, restricting
cash flow and losing investment income. Determining how
to get real-time data from the business’ system instead
of waiting for delayed reports can show the owners how much
faster they can make critical decisions based on accurate,
up-to-date information.
Providing
Technical Advice and Solutions
Offering
sound technical advice requires that a CPA know the business’
needs and processes as well as the various technology solutions
available. Having a well-rounded knowledge of the available
solutions will enable a CPA to recommend the right technology
fit.
Providing
technical advice and solutions, however, can be challenging
and risky. Providing sound technical advice requires continuous
education and certification. Offering technology solutions
may require employing a technology division to provide training
and support.
To
offer competitive, comprehensive technical advice and solutions
without being immersed in the rapidly changing IT industry,
a CPA can partner with an IT solutions provider. A respectable
solutions provider can analyze a business’ practices,
needs, processes, and goals and recommend and support the
appropriate technology solutions.
Finding
the Right Technology Partner
There
are plenty of IT solutions providers to choose from, but
not all of them are compatible with every company. Consider
the following issues when choosing the right solutions provider:
Reputation:
Ask for references from well-known organizations.
Time in business: Choose a stable organization that has
been around for at least 10 years.
Experience:
Check the solutions provider’s experience to see if
it matches the business’ needs.
Training:
Check to see if the solutions provider offers training by
certified trainers.
Support:
Check the procedure, response time, and hours of operation
of the solutions provider’s support center. If 24/7
support is needed, a 9-to-5 provider will not suffice.
Partnering
with a technology provider is a cost-effective way of offering
more comprehensive services while allowing CPAs to do what
they do best. It’s also a great way to attract new
business.
Steve
Ciarciello is the president and CEO of CompuData,
Inc. |